Stella B Designs

Christmas in July - Week 3

2011-07-15T20:37:00.000-07:00

Coming from a Mommy who doesn't start Christmas shopping until December 15th-ish *cringe*, I know how difficult it could be to start planning for Christmas lists now - especially when those lists may or may not include crocheted winter items! It's hot outside, for pete's sake! However, with the upcoming birth of our 4th daughter, I will NOT be taking any orders - Christmas or otherwise - after a certain date in October (TBD)!

Week 3 Special:

It's a BOGO sale!

All items in the Stella B Designs Etsy shop are Buy One, Get One for 25% off!!

First item full price...2nd item, 25% off!!!
Second Item must be of equal or lesser value.

Purchase your items from Etsy and I will
credit your PayPal account for the 25% discount!

OR, send me a "Convo" via Etsy, and I will create your personalized listing with the updated pricing.

Go on... take your pick... my Etsy world is your oyster!
ADDED BONUS: Orders $75 and over will ship for free!

**Please be aware that if your order contains more than 2 items, your production time will be extended by at least two days.**

Christmas in July - Week 2

2011-07-09T11:08:00.000-07:00

Week 2 Special
15% off ALL Newsboys and Newsgirl beanies! 'Luxe & Classic!!

You can also find a bonus Coupon Code on the Facebook Page! "Like" me and save even more!!

'Luxe Newsboy

'Luxe Newsgirl

Classic Newsgirl

Classic Newsboy

All photos are for example purposes only! The color choices are endless! You can find more examples HERE!

Christmas in July - Week 1

2011-07-09T10:56:00.000-07:00

Week 1 Special
15% OFF ALL Ted E Bear Beanies!!
Seeing as how I'm a procrastinator and didn't get this info up last week, just mention the blog during checkout, I will take allow this discount through the end of July and will credit your PayPal!

You can also find a bonus Coupon Code on the Facebook Page! "Like" me and save even more!!

CHUNKY

CHARLIE
KNOBBY

Ultrasound & Winner Results

2011-06-04T15:52:00.000-07:00

Let me just start off by saying that I am absolutely thrilled after today's ultrasound! I would even say be-Yond thrilled! We are expecting a beautiful baby that we didn't even know we wanted! And we're in love.

So on to the results... can you tell from the profile?
Girlish, more boyish?

How about from the toesy woesies?!
I have to say that I fell head over heels, wholeheartedly in love with this baby *just* from this picture! I love me some baby feets!!
Has there ever been a more perfect footprint... ever?
And just check out these digits!
Sturdy and rugged? or Slender and refined?

Well, here's the shot that matters!
The baby cooperated and let us peek where we were hoping to peek!

It's a....

She was rockin' a heart beat of 149 - which means that "Chelsea" is the winner! She guessed it right on the dot!

Thank you all for reading and playing along! I love sharing my excitement with you!

Chelsea - please email me at stellabdesigns@yahoo.com so that we can discuss details for your winnings!!!

Get your Guesser's Warmed Up!

2011-06-03T11:04:00.001-07:00

It's been awhile since I've done a giveaway.

Waaaay too long, if you ask me.
Since Facebook has been cracking down on the contests/giveaways held on their site, I have opted to just hold this one directly from the blog. I might as well add in this disclaimer, while I'm at it: “This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook.... er, or Blogger, for that matter.”

I am so excited about finding out the sex of our 4th baby so we'll make this a guessing contest! The person closest to guess the gender AND heart rate at tomorrow's ultrasound, will be the winner! If there aren't any exact guesses on the heartbeat, we'll go with the closest number, without going over!

Up for grabs: $20 store credit to Stella B Designs!

That means you can get one of these...

or these...

or even one of these beauties!

You *could* also opt for one of these...
these,
or these! However,

you would be responsible for any costs exceeding the $20 store credit. (I will invoice you via PayPal for the remaining balance.)
Store credit is good towards shipping and will be good for 3 months. If you select something and your total is less than $20, your remaining credit will also be good for 3 months!

To enter:
Leave a comment on this blog post with your Gender and Heart Rate guess.
For example: Girl / 162
Within the same comment, please also leave me your email address or SOME WAY to get a hold of you should you have the winning guess. I would love it if you were a follower of my blog, however, you *should* be able to leave a comment as a guest!

You can also email me your guesses/entries to stellabdesigns@yahoo.com!

Fine print on guesses: Due to the nature of the guessing game, duplicate heart rate guesses will be considered on a first comment, first serve basis. For example, if I have 3 commenters that guess "Girl / 158" and that is the winning combo, then the first person to guess that combo will be the winner.

A little more fine print: One guess per commenter!!

More fine print: If, for some reason, the baby doesn't cooperate and we are unable to determine the sex, then the contest will be held over until my next u/s - later in the month - exact date TBA!

May's Featured Item

2011-05-06T08:50:00.000-07:00

This is a new practice for Stella B Designs - Monthly Featured Items.

How it works: Each month, I will announce which SBDesigns item will be featured - along with the sale price and ordering information.

May's Featured Item is the Summertime Newsgirl Beanie!!
$2 off all sizes!
Thanks to Chryshelle Spurgeon Photography for this adorable shot!

This hat is perfect for the Spring and Summer months! It's made with durable, 100% cotton yarn, the functional visor helps to protect little eyes while the open stitching allows the flow of air to keep their little heads cool.

Colors and sizes are fully customizable so you can create a hat that will go perfectly with her wardrobe!

How to Order: Visit Stella B Designs... on Big Cartel to take advantage of this months' featured item!
Extra Bonus: Use Coupon Code "BC10" to receive an extra 10% off of your order!

Thank you to Amy McMaster Photography for this beautiful shot!

You can see more color and design samples on the Stella B Designs Facebook Page!

A Stella B's First

2011-05-05T18:31:00.000-07:00

I have been getting a lot of new pictures from photographers and I just wanted to share some from Brittney Wood Photography!
Brittney is the first photographer that I ever worked with. I was shy and unsure how the swaps are supposed to work but am so glad that I took the step out and contacted her. These next couple photos are some of the first I ever had photographed by a professional. Thanks to Brittney's wonderful work I was able to gain some confidence and begin to grow my business.

"These make my ovaries quiver, " is exactly what I said upon seeing this precious boy in the Charlie Bear beanie.

This next one is a new one she sent me!

When Brittney contacted me late last year and told me she was going to have an influx of babies this spring, I was super excited to create some items for her. One of the items she loosely requested was a square tassle beanie.

I had the perfect yarn to create a gorgeous gender neutral beanie. Her photography does an excellent job at catching the different shades and hues. I wish you could feel this yarn! So soft and dreamy. Perfect for a newborn!

One of my new favorites!

If I weren't already pregnant this one would definitely have me dragging The Hubs upstairs. (TMI, huh?) Lookit the lips and that precious little tongue!

I love the processing on this one... making it a little softer and even more dreamy.

And she threw this one in there! I'm pretty sure we've never discussed it before, but I have quite the obsession with baby feets! I love how the Leg Lovies play an accompanying role to those scrumptious little piggies! nom nom nom

You can check out more of Brittney's new relatives by checking out her BlOg!!

Thank you so much, Brittney!! It is definitely my pleasure to know you!

Silly Monkeys

2011-04-29T11:06:00.000-07:00

Introducing the complete Sock Monkey Collection by Stella B Designs...!

Traditional
Red, White & Gray w/ Red Pom

Monkey Girl
Tan, White & Rose Pink Accents

These beautiful Monkey Girl shots were taken by 'Ella B photography!

I love the rustic, soft feel of her work!

I can't say it enough, I love her work!

Monkey Boy
Tan, White & Soft Blue Accents

These precious photos are compliments of Brittney Wood Photography!

Brittney is the first professional photographer I ever worked with and I love her work more and more!!

Sizing & Pricing Info:

XXS (Preemie) - up to 14" circumference

XS (Newborn- 3 mos) - Up to 15.5"

S (Infant - 3-6 mos) - 15" - 16"

M (6-12 mos) - 16" - 18"

L (Toddler, 12-24 mos) - up to 19.5"

XL (3T - 6x) - 19"-22"

XXL (Tween-Adult) - 22" - 24+"

*Pink, Blue or Classic Gray
XS-M: $24
L-XL: $26
XXL: $28

Spirit Week - Day 5 - Pajama Day

2011-03-05T23:08:00.000-08:00

It was Pajama Day on Friday. What more can I say?
Except that the girls were definitely feeling the Friday Fever!

I knew after about 1.87 seconds that I needn't bother trying for a nice, smiley picture or two.

They were having nothing to do with sweetness and piety and manners.
What fun would that be?

And I just have to tell you about the little panda mask. I had to fight that sassy lil redhead tooth and nail to get her to - at the very least - wear it around her neck.

Me: "Come on, Red. It's so cute!
Red: Idon'tcareI'mnotwearingit.
Me: "Why not?! It's your sleep mask... it's Pajama Day!
Red: "No."
Me: "Yeah... come on, now... Just wear it for me. Everyone will think it's so cute."
Red: "Idon'tcare.Idon'twannawearit."
*insert serious pouting* (on both sides)
Me: "Ok, let's make a deal. If Daddy says it's not cute, then you don't have to wear it. But, if he says it's super cute, then you have to wear it, OK?"
Red: "Fiiiiiiiiiiiiiine"
Me: "Ok, shake on it.... Taaaaterrrrr.... SHAKE ON IT!"
Red (while shaking): "You're so weird, mom."

Guess who won?!?!

And aren't you so glad that I tricked and manipulated her? Of course Daddy was gonna think that was cute!!! Who wouldn't? (Besides Red, that is.)

Spirit Week - Day 4 - Character Day

2011-03-05T22:45:00.001-08:00

Seeing as how our girls attend a Christian School, we decided to send them as Bible characters. Ok, that's not completely true. If we'd had more time to get the right costumes together, they probably would have liked to go as something mainstream.

However, I wasn't as prepared for Character Day as some of the other days. Actually, they were both just going to go to school in their uniforms because they couldn't decide on anything. Until, that is, I started throwing ideas out there at 7 a.m. the morning of. You shoulda heard me... I was like a brainstorming genius!

Here's what we came up with!

A Fisher of Men
Matthew 4:19
Some ratty jeans, a fishing vest, a Christian tee, fishin' boots (that also served as her vet boots on Day 1), a bucket, and a her bait (her Bible). Pretty clever, if I do say so myself.

A "Daniel-and-the-Lion's-Den" Lion
Daniel 6:16
Let me tell ya, Brenna did *not* want to wear it. at. all. I told her that when people tried to talk to her, she should just act like she was trying to talk with her mouth shut because God shut the lion's mouth. I got a "Mom-are-you-retarded" look from her. Sassy little poop. However, I had a feeling that she might change her mind before they were ready to leave, so I told the other parental figure to leave it out "just in case". Whaddya know? She changed her mind when her friend, Sierra, came over with another Lion's costume on!!!

*sigh* sisters... ;o)

I had already left for school so I didn't get to see any of these pictures until tonight when I got around to uploading them. Apparently, Miss EmmaLou didn't want to be left out, either so I'll share her photos with you! You couldn't use a little preciousness in day?

Gawsh, I love my girls!

Day 5: Pajama/Movie Day

Spirit Week - Day 3 - Crazy Hair Day

2011-03-02T11:06:00.001-08:00

There go them crazy Christian School kids...

What'er they teaching them kids up there in that school?

School Spirit, that's what!

Necessary Evil

2011-03-01T16:56:00.000-08:00

It hurts me to do it, but I've had to do a little restructuring in the pricing department if I want to continue with my crocheting business. I started out as an inexperienced, but learning quickly newby, who was doing it mostly for fun. I had hoped, but never expected it to turn into such an successful side-business.

I could just change all the prices and not give any explanations, but I'm not wired like that. I need to pour my heart out and help you understand why it's such a necessary evil... ya know, so you won't hate my stinkin' guts! I really want it to sink in that I'm not doing it for greedy and self-indulgent reasons and I want you to continue loving me!

1)My yarn supplier is gone, gone gone... so I'm having to order via internet more. Which means slightly higher prices and shipping costs. I'm also having to drive more to get yarn... and well... have you seen the gas prices?

2) I am slowly transitioning so that Stella B Designs will make up more of my income, so I have to make it worth my while. Between the fees for listing, fees for selling and the fees for accepting payments, I was barely breaking even.

3) I'm good.

4) Really. I am. I have learned so much in technique and my abilities are solid. I am fully confident in my skills and although the prices are changing a bit, I made sure that I'm not sitting at the top of the price ranges found on Etsy for comparable items. I could charge at the high end and you'd be getting the same quality from me that you'd find else where out there. However, I'm also a mom who is also concerned with the cost of raising children... like three of them. Girls, even.

You can find a list of the new size chart and pricing by clicking here. I really appreciate your continued support and encouragement! I seriously have some of the best customers - read "likers, fans, followers... and friends".

Spirit Week - Day 2 - The 80's

2011-03-01T08:30:00.000-08:00

So here it is, 80's day!!!

I can honestly say, "I've made it"! I am now answering the same questions that I used to ask my mom.
"Did you have electricity?"
"Did you have TV waaaay back then?"
"Was it color TV or just black and white?"
"Did you actually wear clothes like these and do your hair like this?"

No comment.
Because I still might still have just enough painful memories of that awkward time to get my girls in the general vicinity.... with the help of The Walmarts.

I think they're totally rockin' the era hard!
Although, sorry to say it, that I couldn't talk either of them into Leg Warmers.
Fer shame.
But I think you can see, from this picture, that they're ready to enjoy the day of 80's!
We were having so much fun, we even found a random girl from the neighborhood to join in.

no. not. really.
(that's Brenna's classmate and friend, Sierra!)
And here is my best attempt at 80's hair. Even though my girls' hair is shorter and all one length, mostly, I was able to get a little height. The mere look of terror on Brenna's face as I teased and ratted and teased and sprayed her hair was enough to make my day!
Her darned cowlick made it kinda hard to keep the height up, but we were happy with it.
And then there's this lil freak. (I say freak with all the love and warmth and joy of any proud - but bewildered- Mama could have for their child!) She's often been called my little 'mini-me'. I don't think a daughter could look more like her Mom. However, I will deny - to the ends of time - that I *ever* wore my hair like this.

My bangs were much higher and much more impressive.

Lookit the expression on her face! She is the goofiest, most outgoing, fun-loving freak that ever lived! Definitely outshines her mom in the personality department! So wish I could go see all the other kids and the outfits they'll be in today!

Tomorrow - Spirit Week, Day 3 - Crazy Hair Day!!
because the 80's hair wasn't crazy enough!

It's Spirit Week - Day 1 - Career Day

2011-02-28T08:22:00.000-08:00

Last night I said "goodnight" to my 10 and 6 year old daughters, and this morning I said "hello" to a super cute Horse Vet and a sweet and sassy Nurse!

Brooklyn, lover of all things horses, showed no hesitation whatsoever when I asked her what she wanted to be! I think she loves them so much that even the shoulder-length glove isn't enough to deter her from her aspirations! *yikes*

And here's my Brenna, 6. She is always so helpful and caring and attentive to the needs of others! It's no wonder that her helpful, healing spirit would lead her to the medical profession. I cut and sewed and cut and sewed some more to make her a miniature scrub set! Her Auntie Kell, also a nurse, lent her a stethescope to help make the outfit complete!

Then, with the help of a fishing license holder, I made each of them a little ID tag.

Rounding off their outfits are, of course, the SHOES... or boots, in Brooklyn's case!

... and "scrub shoes".

Tomorrow is "80's Day"!!
Guess I'm gonna have to start googling the 80's, because I'm way too young to have experienced that time myself! ;o)

Oh.Em.Gee.

2011-02-22T14:24:00.001-08:00

So I'm sitting on my couch and I smell this *very* strong smell of coffee...

I know it's not freshly brewing coffee because we have a Keurig... and hubby's not home... and, like I said, I was sitting on the couch.

So I already have a basic guess of what's happening in the other room.

But come on... this?

Soooo... yeah.
And grrr.

I mean, really. REALLY?!
The WHOLE container, guys?

At first I thought it was just my sweet little angel-face, but these are the socks coming off of her favorite little minion. (Face cropped out to protect the not-so-innocent).
Btw, that's not dirt making his white socks look so dingy...
yeah...

coffee.
And that would be the head of my sweet lil Boo!
Again, not flea poop... coffee.
At the end of all that, I ended up with a couple of things...
1. A washer filled one giant, super-huge bean bag cover, coffee-covered socks, one curtain panel, one pair of lil boy minion pants and one purple polka-dotted pajama.

Without questioning why my daughter was still in her pajamas at noon-thirty- er, that time of day, would you look at the feet of her pajamas? Goodness Gracious!

2. A house that smells like fresh brewed coffee. Not even the best candle can get a more accurate coffee aroma filling up your entire house!

3. A brand new memory to file in the Momma Files

*sigh*

A special thanks goes out to my Dyson... She (yes, she - she's pink) did a fabulous job at sucking up that entire container of coffee.

In case you don't know what it's like to clean up all that coffee off of any surface... I'm not gonna tell you. I'll let you ruminate on how many trillion-ka-jillions pieces of coffee me and my Dyson tackled... and pray that you all will someday get to put such an awesome memory in your Momma Files!

Photographer Shoutout - Shady Lane Studios

2011-01-26T06:00:00.000-08:00

I say it all the time; "one of my favorite parts of what I do is seeing my hats in professional photos"! It's probably because whenever I try to do my own pictures for my shop, I fail miserably! It just makes it all the sweeter when these photographers make my creations look Soooo much better!

This weeks' shout-out goes to Shady Lane Studios. Located in Idaho, Lauren "Lala" Harms captures some of the sweetest poses. Her attention to detail and high level of quality are a testament of how much she loves her job! Her photos are scrumptious!

I call this one "bum-alicious"!

Stop by her Facebook page and show her some love!

No More Hide n Seek

2011-01-25T13:06:00.000-08:00

I currently have four places that people can find Stella B Designs... Etsy, Facebook, Blogger and then **Big Cartel. Big Cartel is a new venue that I'm trying out that seems to be a bit easier and more streamlined - not to mention a bit easier on my pocket book on a monthly basis.

All of that being said... in an effort to make things easier on you, your friends, family, America, Haiti... basically, anyone... to find me, I purchased a domain name! Now, instead of trying to remember "stellabs.etsy" or "stellabdesigns.bigcartel" or facebook/whatever, you can now type "www.stellabdesigns.com" directly into a search engine or url bar and get to my products! For now it's linked to Big Cartel so I can hopefully get a little more traffic there.

I welcome any feedback on your preference of venues!

**DISCOUNT CODE FOR BIG CARTEL: Enter "PROMO10" during checkout for 10% off your total purchase. Please let me know how you like the new venue!

New Listings

2011-01-19T09:13:00.000-08:00

**Warning**

The listings you are about to see may be dangerous to your birth control resolve!
If  you are not or do not want to be pregnant, you may not want to look at  these... consider yourself warned!!! I will not be held responsible for  any babies or pregnancies resulting from the viewing of these photos!!

Brace yourself!

Lookit this lil tadpole...

I KNOW! I told you! I can hear the collective 'awwww's'.

And then there's this lil critter!

So precious that I can hardly stand it!

Special thanks for these ovary-twitching pictures go out to Photography by Danielle Anderson! I am loving her work!!

(Clicking HERE will not get you pregnant, but it will take you to the listings!)

Sweet & Sassy... Hardcore & Punk?

2011-01-06T10:15:00.001-08:00

Sweet & Sassy... that's how we roll!

It may be a lil corny, but that's pretty much my motto! We love sweet but we also dig the sassy! I was just saying yesterday that I LOVE custom orders and requests for new-to-me designs!
These "Punk/Dragon" beanies are definitely right up my alley when it comes to the "sassy" part of my tastes. However, I think they're a bit more "hardcore & punk" than "sweet & sassy"! I'm sure they look a bit more punk on their new boy owners but Emma LOVED it and didn't want to take it off for hours! Looks like I may have to make a Miss Punk Dragon one for the ladies!

The NEW Punk Dragon Earflap Beanies COMING SOON!
(Shortly after the shop is re-opened)
Stay tuned!!!

Getting to Know Stella B

2011-01-05T10:24:00.000-08:00

First blog entry of 2011!! I had a wonderful Christmas and New Year season! As I get older, the more and more I absolutely love this time of year for the *giving* aspect of Christmas! My Hubs was so frustrated that I couldn't come up with a good wish list for him to look over! I was simply *MORE* excited to get their gifts and looking forward to seeing all of them on Christmas morning! It was so worth it!

Shortly after Christmas and right before New Year's Day, I went in for surgery to have my gallbladder removed. It was to be done laproscopically and I was sooo sure that I was going to be up and around in a day or two. (I'm laughing at myself as I type that). I was not anticipating the recovery to be more difficult that my experiences of childbirth recovery! Each day I'm feeling a little less pain, but am still feeling just enough discomfort to keep me on the pain meds every 6 hours or so.

I have been able to do a couple of small crochet projects, but they've been tiring, so I don't feel quite ready to open up the shop to new orders just yet. I am anxious to get on with it! I've discovered that I like doing my crochet projects more than I thought I did! I miss creating something from a little ball of yarn!

So, since I have a lot of new followers and I've been so absent AND because I often suffer from Bloggers Block, I'm going to start out with a a few Question/Answers about me! I would love to see your question/answer blog posts so feel free to leave your links in the comment sections!

WHO ARE YOU?
*Brooke

WHAT IS YOUR SHOP NAME:
*Stella B Designs

WHO IS STELLA B?
It's me! My first name is Stella, but my parents always called me Brooke, although my sister always calls me Stella B!

WHAT TYPE OF ITEMS TO YOU CREATE?
*My main focus is on crochet beanies for all ages. I try and create items that are uniquely mine, but it's getting harder and harder to come up with completely original items. I love getting custom orders and have also created scarfs, mittens, headbands and even a frog!

WHERE CAN PEOPLE FIND STELLA B DESIGNS?
*Although I work from home, I do not have a "storefront" venue. It it a completely virtual-run shop. My main shop is through Etsy. My profile name on there is "stellabs". I also have a business page on Facebook! (Just click on the bolded links). Email: stellabdesigns@yahoo.com
WHAT'S YOUR DAY JOB?
*My main source of income is watching kids in my home. Stella B Designs came into play a few years later and it is something that I really enjoy doing, but I'm still a Mommy & Wife first and Daycare Provider second. I might like to make Stella B Designs second, but have not come up with a plan to switch things around yet.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR ONLINE BUSINESS?
*Making people happy! I love, love, love knowing that I've created something that people get so much enjoyment out of! I also LOVE seeing my creations used as professional photography props!!! Another thing I really love is taking someone's vision and turning it into a reality - in the form of clothing accessories! lol

WHAT IS YOUR *LEAST* FAVORITE PART OF YOUR ONLINE BUSINESS?
*Um, my current peeve is the ups and downs of the postal system. I normally don't have too many problems, but this season I had a group of trouble packages that drove me crazy! I also have a hard time when the life gets so busy that I can't get my items completed as fast as I want! I would have to say my very least favorite is getting crappy feedback from very non-communicative customers! haha

WHAT ARE YOUR BUSINESS GOALS FOR 2011?
*I hope to continue with my strong success while creating some new items and getting more use from the fabulous photographers I have lined up!

Squishy Face - Stella B's & Captured Blessings Photography

2010-08-16T18:35:00.000-07:00

Can I get an "Awwwwww"?

These beautiful pictures were sent to me by Jennifer Rodman of
Captured Blessing Photography

This precious baby girl is wearing a cream Miss Ted E Bear beanie. Her Mommy and Jennifer added the cute little bow for the perfect finishing touch!

Here's one last photo of Jennifer's own lil man in the Barley Ted E Bear beanie!
Lookit those cheeks! What a handsome lil dude!

Thank you SO MUCH, Jennifer! I look forward to working with you in the future!

Back to School Sale

2010-08-09T12:04:00.000-07:00

We're gearing up for school and love us some good Back To School Sales!
I also love holding Back To School Sales, so here it is!

Until further notice, Stella B Designs customers have two sale options!

Option 1:
Buy 1 Get 1 for $10!
Just mention "BOGO10" in the "message to seller" or in any correspondence to redeem this option!

Option 2:
25% off of 1 single item!
Just mention "BTS25" in the "message to sller" or in any correspondence to redeem this option!

You can order via Etsy or email me at stellabdesign@yahoo.com.
If you order via Etsy, your Sale credit will be refunded via Paypal within 24 hours!
If you email me, we will discuss your beanie choices and I will invoice you via Paypal with the adjusted sale price.

August Giveaway Contest!

2010-08-09T11:19:00.000-07:00

Happy August!

The summer has almost past! The kids are about to go back to school! Fall is just around the corner!
Did it go as fast for you as it went for us? It seemed to pass us by at lightning speed!

This month, the Stella B Designs "Fans" chose something they'd like to win that is a little more grown up! While it can still be made for a child, you can see it looks fabulous on the older crowd!

Introducing:

The Michele Headwrap by Stella B Designs

Color will be completely customizable by the winner(s).

The Michele features a removable/re-positionable "Bubble Flower" on an alligator clip.

It is NOT too soon to think about Christmas gifts!

Thank you to Brittney Wood Photography for these gorgeous pictures!

To enter:
1. Tell me your favorite Childhood School Memory!

2. "Like" my Facebook Fan Page (link is to the right) - you need to leave me a separate comment below if you do this one!

3. RSVP as "attending" to the Stella B Designs August Contest.

4. Tweet this (leave me an additional comment).

5. Blog this. (leave me an additional comment).

6. Share this on Facebook. (Leave an additional comment!).

That is SIX ways to enter (but you MUST leave a separate comment for most of the ways above)!

July Giveaway - WINNERS ANNOUNCED

2010-07-06T15:57:00.000-07:00

CONGRATS, WINNERS!

Happy July!
I hope everyone had an excellent 4th of July!
We have been busy, busy, busy with birthdays and holiday and church activities!
This time of year can be so busy, but so fun!

The July Giveaway item is the:

Ted E Bear beanie!

The winner(s) will get to choose their size, color and bow options.

The more entries into the giveaway, the more winners there will be!

This makes the perfect gift, photo prop or head-warmer!

To enter:
1. Tell me your favorite BBQ food item by leaving me a comment on here!

2. "Like" my Facebook Fan Page (link is to the right) - you need to leave me a separate comment below if you do this one!

3. RSVP as "attending" to the Stella B Designs July Contest.

What I Make

2010-07-02T09:47:00.001-07:00

Morning!
I've been a reader of Kelly's Korner for quite sometime!
She has an adorable daughter name Harper that I've been able to watch grow through her blog!

Kelly hosts a weekly "Show Us Your Life" blog where she asks her readers to share how they do things in their lives!

This week is "Show Us What you Make".

So if you're visiting from Kelly's page... Hello, my name is Brooke! I make and sell Crochet Beanies and accessories! I realized the last few posts have not included my actual craft, so I'm posting a few pictures of my favorites!

I sell them on Etsy and also have a Fan Page on Facebook.

My Letter to Canada

2010-06-01T15:00:00.000-07:00

Dear Canada,

Let's start out by acknowledging that I don't know much about you and you don't know me. That much is clear.

Things that I do know about you:
(yes, in bullet form)

You're anthem starts out with "Oh, Canada" and I can't get it out of my head
You're situated north of the equator and my wonderful country
You have really big mooses... no... mose? er...moose?...
You are home to some really cool ladies that I consider myself privileged to know!
You have much snow that bugs said ladies
Both French and English are spoken
I hear your health care is something to behold
You stole my Patrick Marleau from the Sharks to play for you in the Olympics
Your customs process is really putting a kink in my shipping schedules!

It is this last bullet point that I'd like to address in detail. Actually, I'd really like to discuss the last two, but for now I'll keep it short. Alls I have to say is, "What the heck, man?" 21 days minimum is my experience. Twenty. One. Days. This seems a bit excessive to me.

Let me just note that everything I ship in the US takes 5 days TOPS. Yes, that includes ALL THE WAY across the United Sates! I won't even bore you with my mileage and time factorage calculations that I don't actually have, but let's just say that I'm thinking it's ridiculous.

I won't get into the "why would you even consider holding your countrymen's purchases for that insane amount of time" topic... I just want to respectfully request that you maybe might come up with a new system that will cut down on the arrival time by... a week? At the least?

Don't get me wrong... some of my best friends are customs workers... I'm not a hater. I just think something else could be done.

Please?!

I'll be here. Waiting for your response.

Thanks so much,

Helpless US Shipper

Product Placement - Curlformers

2010-05-20T09:10:00.000-07:00

I always wanted my girls to have some curl to their hair.

But it just wasn't meant to be.

All three of them have gorgeous hair. BGrace's is thick and it highlights in the sun. It's got golden browns and highlights of red. Red's is a gorgeous shade of... you guessed it... a red that can't get from a bottle! And Boo's is long and flowing... and honestly, quite wild if I don't get it tamed! She does have a slight curl at the ends, but I have a hunch that as soon as she gets her first hair trim, those will be a thing of the past. *sad face*

So basically, we're a bunch of straight-as-a-board hair people.

UNTIL NOW!

I just ~~wanted~~ have to share this product!

Curlformers!!

Because we have 3 girls, I bought the big box of them. I have to say that I LOVE the whole design. It's hard to explain in words, but there is a hook that pulls the hair through the curlformer. There is no wrapping the hair around anything! I always found that soooo tedious and I'd never know exactly what the curls were going to come out.

I was able to do all three girls hair in a little over an hour. Most of that time is just the sectioning of the hair. I wasn't going to do Boo's hair, but she plopped down on the stool and said "ME TWERN!!" I had five of them left, so I was able to get her hair pulled into them. I'd say it turned out pretty well for an 'afterthought'!

I'm not going to lie...they are more expensive than what I would normally pay for this type of thing, but I think the end results are worth it. Plus, I think they're going to last us a LONG while... from what I've seen, they look to be pretty sturdy and long lasting.

What do you think?

**EDITED**
Here is the video that is on the Curlformers site. I didn't see this until the next morning and I was still able to figure it out! All 3 girls slept in their Curlformers... no forming cream was used... and they turned out amazing!

Post It Note Tuesday

2010-05-18T08:36:00.000-07:00

Here it goes, my first foray into putting my Passive-Aggressive inner voice a chance to shine...

My very first ...

*sigh* that felt good!

It sure was Monday!

2010-05-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

Here is how I planned to spend my day...

crochet, crochet, crochet

Run a few errands and be back in time for the SACRED NAP TIME

crochet, crochet, crochet

Spend time with the hubs and kiddos

crochet, crochet, crochet

Sweet, sweet sleep!

Now, here is how I actually spent my Monday...

crochet, crochet, crochet...
I was feeling pretty good and accomplished by the time I left to run errands

Bank...

Auto. Parts. Store. (NOT planned)

Hubs met us there and changed the fuel filter and we were on our way! A little hiccup, but I felt good to have that done!

Pull out of the parking lot just to pull back in.... truck chugs to a stop half-in and half-out of the parking lot.

Call hubs. Wait, he's right there... HONK, HONK, HONK

Hubs drove by. Didn't even look at me!

Call. Voice Mail. Click.

Call. Message: Me- "I cannot believe you just DROVE right by me? Didn't you hear me honking my horn? I'm broke down. Turn around and come back and GET ME!"

Call. Voice Mail. Click.

Call. Voice Mail. Click.

Call. Voice Mail. Click.

Call. Voice Mail. Click.

Call. Voice Mail. Click.

Call. Voice Mail. Click.

No kidding... still calling.

Call. Voice Mail. Click.

Call. Message: Me- "If I have to call my dad, you are gonna be sorry! You knew I was going to be calling you to make sure the truck was working. The next call I make is to him because you won't pick up your blankety blank phone!"

Um, Click.

I got a little stressed at one point. He FINALLY answered his phone about 12 calls later!

I've already made this post longer than it had to be with all of my copy and pasting and entering, so I'll just say that my hubs and Dad saved the day. My Dad helped my Hubs run parts down and do a diagnostic thing on the truck and then hubs changed the $150 fuel filter right there in the parking lot! He's a stud like that.

So by that time it was pick-up time at school. Once I relayed the story to the girls, Red was insistent that she get to go and "just watch" them fixing the truck! We went back to the truck and repairs in progress.

Poppa and Daddy were happy to have their lil helper observe.
You can now observe her observing her dad (the one in the flip flops and bare legs under the truck). You can also observe the rain on the ground. Yeah, he didn't much plan for the weather.

Did I mention how awesome he is!?

Oh... and see that little silver cylinder thing there on the ground? That'd be the OLD fuel pump that decided it was going to call the shots today.

My messed up day was worth seeing her watch them.

... even if I didn't get half the things done I had planned!

How was your Monday?

P.S. I totally apologized to the Hubs for being mean and ugly. He didn't know what I was talking about... and when I explained, he made me sit there as he listened to the two not-so-nice messages I left him. Yikes!

What'll It Be?

2010-05-16T13:37:00.001-07:00

You now have the POWER to choose next Month's Giveaway Item!
Whichever - or is it "Whatever" - item receives the most "likes" or votes will be next months Featured Item!!!

You can cast your vote in the "What'll it Be??" album on Facebook - (Just click the Facebook Fan Page button over there --------------->

OR

You can comment below on the item you'd like to win in June!

FOR THE GIRLS

Option 1: Girly Girl Newsgirl Beanie

Option 2: Summertime Newsgirl Beanie

Option 3: NEW Stella B Headwrap
(This is a brand new item - not yet sold online!)

FOR THE BOYS

Option 1: Deluxe Earflap Beanie

Option 2: Basic Newsboy Beanie

Weekend Special 5/15 - 5/16

2010-05-15T19:24:00.000-07:00

**UPDATED 5/17/10 - BOGO sale will be extended throughout today, Monday, May 17.!!**

It's BOGO time!

Buy 1 beanie at regular price, get the 2nd beanie 1/2 off!
ALL Beanies included in sale!
*Sale item must be of equal or lesser value*.

Offer good through Sunday, May 16 - 8 p.m. (pacific standard time)

How to Order:

Etsy
2. Email me at stellabdesigns@yahoo.com

May Giveaway

2010-05-06T16:30:00.000-07:00

Here it is...

May's giveaway item!
White, Bay Pink, Rose Pink & Brown
with a 3-Layer Crochet Clip!

Simply textured...

Simply adorable...

Simply Sweet!

This is the first in a long line of beanies to be added to the "Simply Sweet" collection!

This is a brand new line and will not be going up for sale until after May's giveaway is over!

To enter, leave me a comment on here telling me your favorite sweet treat!

For multiple chances to win, you can visit me on Facebook and RSVP in the May Giveaway Event! Just RSVP as "ATTENDING" and that's it!

Check out this Sweet Treat!
Is that not the sweetest smile?

**Child and dog are not included in this months' giveaway! ;o)

P.S. I really need to get some new boy styles, but for now, if you enter and win and only have boys, you will get a Basic Newsboy beanie!

And the winner is...

2010-05-01T10:48:00.001-07:00

The April Giveaway has ended.

And actually, its plural! I decided to add another winner... because I cant' stop myself!

The winners ARE....

Denise Wrightman Stevelinck

and

Selina (of Wild Things of Noosa)

I'll be conducting a very unorganized and totally random poll on which item you'd like to see in the May giveaway, so leave me a comment on here and I'll announce the May giveaway opening on Monday, May 3rd!

If you are one of the winners listed above, please email me at stellabdesigns@yahoo.com and I'll get started on your custom beanie!

The Hamptons

2010-04-27T08:05:00.000-07:00

Remember the Hampton's Beanie?

Ok, maybe you don't... and that's OK.

Because I never really sold or advertised it...

I just made it on a whim one day and was pretty pleased with it!
Well, just the other day, another one of you noticed it... and requested a spin-off!

In a Punky Brewster-ish, Pink & Yellow's type style.
This would require me to create an original beanie.
Never been done before.
:blink: :stare: :blink: :gulp: :blink:

Side note: If you remember back when when I wrote this post...
I break out in hives, shut down for a solid 3 hours, and curl into the fetal position
anytime a customer request me to "use my own judgment", "do whatever I think looks best", "decide for them" or to "just surprise me!"

Side-Side note - You probably won't remember that post, because I had all of zero comments on it and probably zero views.

And that's OK.

So after I uncurled and had a cleansing shower, I sat down and just "went with it".

One row at a time....
:blink:
Using my "best judgement"...

:gulp:

Until the last row was done
:sigh: :phew:

I'm not sure how Punky Brewster-ish it turned out, but it *is* an original.
Never to be reproduced - at least not exactly the same.

You can see more Deluxe Newsgirl style beanies here.

Or here.

Photographer Shoutout - Kat's Photography

2010-04-22T09:11:00.000-07:00

Happy Thursday, All!
I just wanted to share some adorable new pictures from a very talented photographer I have had the pleasure of working with!

I met Carina Olsen via a March '08 due date buddy this past year.
Kat's Photography is located in League City, Texas. I am very envious of anyone in her area that has access to her fresh, modern, clean & sassy talent!

I had admired her work for a long time before being brave enough to ask her if she'd like to do a service swap!

Fortunately, for me, she said yes so I sent her a couple of items and this is the gorgeousness I got back!

I get giddy just looking at them!

Pixie Stocking Caps

Mr. Ted E Bear Newborn Beanie

Miss Ted E Bear Newborn Beanie

These two new styles are available now for purchase!
Just click here to go to my Etsy shop or email me at stellabdesigns@yahoo.com for more information!

Grab My Butt-on

2010-04-16T13:43:00.000-07:00

I totally didn't mean that to sound ... "weird".

Ok, I lied... yes I did.

But I was referring to my new button that I created in just under 43 hours! You'd never guess that I could get it done so quickly, huh? I mean, with all of it's insanely detailed craziness!

Anyway, I'm happy with it... and if you have a blog and would like to grab my butt-on *smirk*, then... well, it'd really make the world a better place!

Grab on, people! Grab on.

April Giveaway

2010-04-05T12:07:00.001-07:00

I promised a monthly giveaway, so here we go!

It was this time last year that I made this month's giveaway item! I never knew how popular they would become!

April's giveaway item FOR THE GIRLS is the:

Summertime Newsgirl Beanie
This beanie is awesome for the upcoming summer months! It's open weaving and visor allows for a cooler version of the Newsboy beanie, while still providing protection for those little eyes!

Colors available:
Pinky Stripes, Purple Stripes, Lime Stripes, Yellow Stripes, Aqua/Blues Stripes
and most mainstream colors

April Giveaway item FOR THE BOYS:

1 Basic Newsboy Beanie
In the color of your choice!

THREE WAYS TO ENTER:

*1 entry for a comment on blog (tell me what your favorite flower is)
*1 entry for 1 Tweet @stellabs
*1 entry for "attending" the Facebook Giveaway Event
*1 entry if you blog about the giveaway!
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=111245902232830

Opportunities

2010-03-09T21:41:00.000-08:00

In a recent effort to get more fans and followers, I had a giveaway over on the Facebook Fan Page this last weekend! I had 134 fans when I decided to host a giveaway. Terms and condistions were that the "fans" pass me around (aka pimp me out to all their friends) and get the page up to 150 fans. If they could do that, I agreed to pick 3 winners!

They did it within a few hours!

So then I told them that if we could get up to 200 fans before Sunday night that I would add a 4th winner!
The numbers crept up... and up... and up!

Here I am... less than a week later... with 241.

They got their 4th winner! I have to say, that I had a lot of fun doing it! Here are some pictures of my sophisticated, high tech selection process!

Yeah ,I could have used one of those fancy smancy number generators, but I kinda liked the idea of doing it "old school". I had way more fun this way, too!

My beautiful daughter, Brookyn, volunteered to be my super professional and highly paid assisant. (Her currency was "getting out of homework for an extra five minutes.)
Here she is picking the GRAND FAN WINNER!!!

Meral K won the Grand Fan prize - 1 custom beanie & 1 pair of Leg Lovies!The remaining winners get 1 custom beanie!

I want to say THANK YOU to all of my "fans" (I'm starting to get a diva-complex everytime I say that) for their support and pimpin' skills!
I definitely had fun with this giveaway and plan to start a monthly giveaway in April!

You can get one more chance to win by visiting this wonderful Mommy Bloggers page! Her gorgeous heart baby, Bentley, first drew me to her page and I'm glad to be able to share in their journey. (She also has a daughter with a really cool name - see if you find which one of my children share a name with hers!)

She is giving away a Girly Girl Newsboy beanie to one lucky commenter on her blog! But hurry in because she's closing it down on Wednesday!

Click on her button below to be taken to her blog!

Chances are good

2010-03-05T07:33:00.000-08:00

Have you entered the Giveaway yet?

Have I mentioned what the prizes are? (Yes, I said "prizES")

The 1st, Grand Fan Winner will get to choose:
1 Beanie - ANY beanie from ANY photo album or DESIGN THEIR OWN
AND 1 pair of Leg Lovies

The 1st & 2nd runner-ups will get to choose:
1 Beanie - ANY beanie from ANY photo album or DESIGN THEIR OWN

34 out of 165 fans have entered into the latest Giveaway!

With three possible winners, that's a 1 out of 11 chances to win?!?!

DISCLAIMER: The science of probability is not one of strong suits (so don't tell me if I'm wrong), but as the numbers stand, I think you have a pretty good chance of winning! LoL I even googled the topic so I might sound like I know what I'm talking about, but I'm no more certain my calculations are correct lol

Remember, you DO NOT have to be anywhere or do anything other than RSVP to the event. You DO NOT have to "be present to win". You WILL have to follow some steps to get entered though...

1. Go to the Stella B Designs Fan Page

2. Become a Fan (if you're not already)
3. Click on the "Events" tab - it will bring up the current event
4. Click on "RSVP"
5. It will bring up a box "Attending", "Not Attending" or "Maybe Attending"
In order to be entered, you MUST click on "Attending"!!!

Once again, clicking on "Attending" does not mean you have to go anywhere or do anything else!!

That's it!

I've also announced that we can add a 4th winner if we get up to 200 fans!!

Previous Giveaway Winners:

Giveaway on the Horizon! - EDITED

2010-03-04T08:24:00.001-08:00

Are you a fan yet?

**We've surpassed our 150 mark and Giveaway Details are now posted! Just click on the Fan Button above for info!

Weekend Special 2/26 - 3/1

2010-02-26T10:06:00.000-08:00

$10 Basic Beanies are BACK!!!

Through Monday, 3/1/10,
all Basic "Sweet Innocence", "Newsboys" and "Earflaps" are only $10!

You can choose something you see in the pictures, or design your own colors!

Sweet Innocence:
Soft and delicate with a scalloped edging.
These come with 1 two-color flower attached.

Basic Newsboys:
Boys: 1 color
Girls: 1 main color w/ 1 color flower (sewn-on)

Basic Earflap Beanies:
Boys: One main color & One Trim color
Girls: One main color & One color for trim & flowers

Add $2 for Deluxe Beanies!

Deluxe Earflaps:
Boys: Multi- color
Girls: Multi Color w/ 1 multi-layer flower (sewn-on)

Deluxe Newsboy Beanies:
Boys: Multi Colors
Girls: Multi-Color with Deluxe Multi-Layer Flower (sewn-on)

First Beanie Ships Free!
$2.50 Flat Rate Shipping to US and Canada for 2+ beanies

TO ORDER you can:

Email me at stellabdesigns@yahoo.com
Click on my Facebook Fan Page button (above) and message me on there
Visit me at my Etsy store and mention the weekend special

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

Let's say we all just ignore it, m'kay?

2010-02-09T20:41:00.000-08:00

I'm referring to my blogging/creative hiatus.

Since we're all in agreement, I'll just jump right in to the good stuff. I opened my crocheting back up for business this month. There are a couple of price adjustments, but nothing major.
(I might just add that my prices for my items are *still* lower than the majority of the beanie shops out there! And might I also add that my products, materials, attention to detail and workmanship is just as high as said competitors! )

Here are a couple examples of my superior work...
(note: author sounds way more conceited than in real life, I promise)

Camo Earflap beanie
Coming soon: camo line for boys AND girls!
Some of the best sellers are:

Basic Newsboy
Deluxe Earflap
Deluxe Earflap
Deluxe Earflap

I'm also in the process of adding some more Leg Lovies!
Here are a few of them. You can click on the Link above to be taken to the Etsy shop!
All Leg Lovies will ship within 48 hours of paid orders and always ship FREE!
LIMITED QUANTITIES IN STOCK!

As always, please don't *EVER* hesitate to contact me... via Etsy, Facebook(click on the Fan Page button above), email (stellabdesigns@yahoo.com), here... wherever! Reach out and touch ~~someone~~ me!

Christmas Ordering Info

2009-11-18T09:57:00.001-08:00

Just a quick note!

Orders received on or before November 27th will be guaranteed for Christmas delivery!
Orders received after November 27th will ship as soon as they are produced, but I will not be able to guarantee Christmas delivery!

Due to the volume of orders at this time of year, all rush orders and wholesale orders will not be accepted until further notice (most likely after the holidays).

It pains me, but...

2009-11-18T08:34:00.000-08:00

With the way business has been going lately & all of my wonderful customers who have been keeping me b.u.s.y, I am not going to be able to get out any of my specialty Christmas items.

*insert wracking sobs here _________*
*mixed with some self-loathing & shame*
*not a pretty sight, I might add*

I had grand plans of getting out some new beanies & Christmas stockings & mittens & scarves & new embellishment items... alas, it's just not meant to be - YET!

I say "yet" because I will get all of these things up and running, but in order to fulfill my obligations to the orders already received, the "NEW" items will have to wait for a little bit.

I *am* going to post some pictures of items that are available for ordering... I just don't have time to do all the normal "marketing" processes they deserve! (i.e. making different colors, designs, taking pictures, editing said pictures, creating listings... etc.)

So, if you see something below that you'd like to order, just shoot me an email at stellabdesigns@yahoo.com OR contact me on Facebook & I'll get you on the list.

First is an adorable little capelet... or "shawl" or "shrug".
I got this pattern from Leila & Ben on Etsy.

It became a very perfect accessory to Brenna's Christmas dress last year.

I fell in love with her dress and as you can see it was fine if she were inside Sears, standing in front of a fake fireplace & Christmas tree...

... but she needed a little more warmth...
so we did this...
It finished off her look very nicely!
This year I'll be making 2 more for my other girls. I guess I wouldn't have to, but I tend to pick the dresses for "cuteness"... not warmth & practicality!

Next on my list was going to be the "Santa Set"
This pattern is from Lion Brand.
Beanies, mittens & scarves can be sold as a set or seperately.

There are so many other "Christmas-related" things I wanted to get up and ready, but I'm just going to show you one more beanie that I really want to "launch". It's not necessarily a Christmas item, but it could be paired with a Christmas ensemble & go quite nicely!

The Butterfly Beanie
I recently made one for Brooklyn (9) and she LOVES IT!

This is NOT my picture or beanie! This particular picture belongs to http://whipup.net/tag/hat-pattern/ - For example purposes ONLY!!!

These are some Butterfly Mitts than can be made to match the beanie!

**This is NOT mine, either - merely for example purposes only!!!
This picture was found at http://suzies-yarnie-stuff.blogspot.com/2009/09/suzies-butterfly-mitts-c.html

Modelicious - Male Model Edition ;o)

2009-10-29T10:06:00.000-07:00

I'd like to introduce you to...

Yasuo, aka "Yas"
His mom and I go way back...
... back to high school, as a matter of fact...
and band... *shiver*

... Zachy-boi
Ok, it's just Zach, but he's probably the closest I'll ever get to having my own son, so I'll call him what I please.

... he did such a good job for his Mom... (my BFF!)

How much sweeter could he be?

Just look at this "manly" little boy!!! Watch out, girls!

... And here's Lucas!
aka "Lukey Duke"

I cannot get enough of his silly smiles and quirky poses!
He's absolutely darling!

... yet calm and serious... and GORGEOUS!
This pose took my breath away! What a sweetheart!

Can we say "b u s y" ?

2009-10-28T21:40:00.000-07:00

B.u.s.y.

aka - bustin' up some yarn...
yeah, ok, that was dumb.

However, I have been soooooo busy lately! I'm not sure what happened...
(I'm betting on the whole "answered prayer" thing)
... but business has been busy... booming... beautiful!!!

Don't believe me?!

Just take a look at what my customers are unlocking!

I say "unlocking" because when they tell me to "just do whatever you think will look good" I am immediately filled with dread and what I can only describe as performance anxiety! *teeth clattering* *knees knocking* *heart beating way too fast*

I have never considered myself to be great when it comes to developing patterns or color swatches on my own...

The request: "I'm photographing twins. I want pinks and blues. I know whatever you come up with will be great."

*sigh* OH, the pressure!

... but I have to say that I think I'm getting better at it.

This little beauty (the beanie... OK, AND the baby) happens to be one of my most favorite designs lately.

Talk about performance anxiety... Andrea, my dear friend from BabyZone land... told me she wanted one plain and brownish but the other one needed to be bright... (She's a mom of 3 BOYS - the exact opposite of my family unit - and made sure I knew she wasn't havin' no sissy colors, neither!)

I curled up into the fetal position for 3 days.

What are these people thinking? Giving me creative leave?

It's like standing up in front of an auditorium full of your frenemies that are just waiting for you to blurt out something totally embarrassing and awkward that the sheer humiliation has you running off the stage crying... leaving a trail of pee.

Ok, maybe not *that* bad... Now, where was I?

Oh yes, in the fetal position...

And then I came up with this one...
Pretty bright, huh?
Boyish, right?

Another sweet one! Lovin' the black and hot pink!

Any girly girls in the house?!

Emma's a girly girl!

Soooooooooooooooo... yeah.

B.u.s.y.

aka - ME

What's been keepin' YOU busy?

Order Status

2009-09-27T11:52:00.000-07:00

In order to help keep my customers informed on the progress of their orders, I am creating a dedicated post so they (you) can come and see how things are going! Please let me know if you have any questions!

Crochet Orders
beautimusb - in progress 4/27
amdamack - order rec'd 4/27
thengel - order rec'd 4/27

Leg Lovie Orders

SHIPPED ORDERS -if you haven't received a confirmation email w/ tracking number & you would like one, please email me @ stellabdesigns@yahoo.com.

4/27/10
menmyboys
kailliam

4/26/10
ladysherz
valsan31
pdx12
kslholt
adorabledimples

4/24/10
Phoreverphoto
valsan31

4/23/10
abjane

4/21/10
Lobomommy

4/19/10
daisygk
gzaferiou
mill0098

ahanon9299
angrenaud
KymLee
melissacarnett
4/6/10
erinkgoff

$10 Beanie Sale!!!

2009-09-25T08:24:00.001-07:00

On Sunday my LM (Lovin' Man) and I will be celebrating 6 years of marriage! It makes me happy and excited and even amazed!

Sooooooo....
I've decided to suspend the BOGO Beanie sale for a few days to bring back the
$10 beanie sale in celebrating our anniversary!

Ways to Order:
*Go to "stellabs" on Etsy & browse current inventory.
*Visit Stella B Designs' Fan page on Facebook, browse photos & send me a message!
*Leave me a comment on here.
*Email me at stellabdesigns@yahoo.com

See something you like in a picture but not in the Etsy shop? Just email me at stellabdesigns@yahoo.com and request your custom order!!

Sale will end on Monday, 9/28/09!

New Seasonal Beanies

2009-09-20T22:09:00.000-07:00

I "Heart" Candy Corn Beanie

*100% cotton yarn
*Available in ALL sizes
*Warm & super cute!
*Since Candy Corn is normally a seasonal item, so are these beanies! So, for a limited time, they will be available for only $10!!!!!!
*SUPER DEAL!Above:
My funky nephew, Cole, was gracious enough to humor me for a photo.
*note the "gracious" expression on his face

Above:
Even Tweenie girls can pull this beanie off! I happen to think she looks adorable!

Above:
Here's "Red" in the same hat!

Above & Below:
Emma modeling the
I "heart" Candy Corn Beanie!

She's actually wearing the same size beanie as the kids above, but because of the yarn & style of the hat, it could still work for her!

I know I've already posted these - FOR THE GIVEAWAY THAT ONLY ONE PERSON HAS ENTERED SO FAR - but I thought I'd post them again since they are seasonal also!

These are the
My Lil Punkin beanies!
Caron Simply Soft yarn (acrylic blend) - as photo'd on the two younger girls...

... or 100% cotton yarn - as photo'd on Brooklyn.
*Definite differences in shades of orange & green.

The My Lil Punkin beanies are on sale now for $12.50, but if you leave a comment on this post, then you earn a chance to WIN ONE for your lil punkin!

Leg Lovies are here - er, back!

2009-09-18T11:10:00.000-07:00

Long, long ago, in a lil land called "Big, Fat Pregnant Land", I ran across the cutest little baby product. Emma was still floatin' & a-lazin' around in the ole belly when I first saw them... I had never seen, heard or dreampt (is that even the correct word, 'cause I know it's not spelt right) of such a thing. I bookmarked the Baby Legs website and vowed to buy a million pair of their beautiful, funky, sassy baby leg warmers. However, shortly after my darling Sass broke out of her restraints, reality set in and the wallet book (and Lovin' Man) spoke and I knew my Baby Leg obsession just wasn't meant to be. (I'm hoping the fact that I'm linking to their website will help to ease any annoyance at using their name in this post.)

Anyone that knows me knows, (or should) know that I don't give up easily. I'll wrack - dagnabit, there's that **word again - "W" and/or "R"ack my brain until I find some way to have those cute lil items that the wallet (and/or Lovin' Man) doesn't agree with.

So I came up with Leg Lovies! I thought I was soooooooooo clever and smart by turning women's knee-hi socks into my very own brand of baby leg warmers! I decided I was SOOOO clever that I'd even try and make some money by selling them to other Mommas that would totally agree that I was clever and smart and so resourceful.

*insert hysterical laughter here*

I should have known that some (read "many, many") other Mommas had already figured out an alternative... and as it turns out - much, much quicker than I had! One of these women is a very nice woman who lives about 30 minutes from me - in the next town over. She probably has one of the biggest Etsy shops with the leg warmers and has been very successful! I was thoroughly impressed!

Ok, so after taking them completely OFF of my listing for months now, I realized I couldn't resist making them any longer! The stores are coming out with their new lines and I was too weak to resist...

All of my "Leg Lovies" have tapered cuffs to help prevent slipping down over the feet and seams are trimmed to help them lay flat and to cut down on the bulk. I have been making these for my girls and wouldn't consider selling them if I wasn't more than satisfied with the quality of the product!

So you're still confused as to what they are? Well, wonder no more... here are a few that I've listed on Facebook so far.

(Seeing as how I'm "small-time" most quantities are very limited! )
And here is one of my beauties modeling them for you!

Why Leg Lovies are so great:

*Leg Lovies provide extra warmth for all ages on cooler days!
*Pair them with a onesie, dress or skirt and they make diaper changing a cinch! (No off and ons!)
*They protect your lil crawler from chaffed knees!
*They can be worn as ARM lovies for those cool autumn mornings!
*They provide extra arm warmth for your beauties who do not like to keep their coats on!!
*And, they are just so darn cute!

♥♥Sizes♥♥
Unless otherwise noted or requested, Leg Lovies run approximately 12-15 inches in length.

♥♥Price: $8/pair or 3 for $21♥♥

**On a very, very side note, I googled "wrack my brain" and found that it can be either or... glad to know, because it was really wracking, er racking my nerves!

Much Love,

Stella B

I'm back... GIVEAWAY INSIDE!

2009-09-18T08:42:00.000-07:00

I just realized I forgot to mention my "hiatus" here on the blog! I'm ashamed & apologize to my humongous following! To make up for that, I'd like to vow to become a better blogger.
...
*silence*
...
*crickets chirping*
...

Alright then...

In lieu of my "vow", I'm offering up a BOGO Beanie Sale! Buy 1 beanie, get 1 - of equal or lesser value - for 1/2 price!! I normally only do sales for the weekends, but seeing as how I feel SO terribly bad for my LOA, I'm running it through to NEXT weekend! Yep, that's right. The BOGO BEANIE SALE will end on Monday, September 28th!

What's that you say? *appropriate pause for your response* "HUH?! Still not good enough?!"

Wracking, er... Racking... er... WR(?)acking my brain for something else...

Ok, how's about a giveaway?! Seeing as how I'm Loving this time of year... the cooling weather, the changing leaves (almost), the scarecrows and browning of the colors... I'm offering up 1 (one) (uno) "My Lil Punkin Beanie"!

Could it be any cuter?! Seriously... the ribbing alone was enough to hook me on this pattern... But with the little green trimming and the tendrils that float down from the stem?!

It's stretchy & soft...
...perfect for the Lil Punkin in your life!

And... it comes in just about every size... as you can see from my Lil Punkins last year!

You know you want one!

All you have to do to enter is answer one simple question...

What is your favorite thing about Fall?!

Entries close September 28th - winners announced that evening!

Weekend Special for Facebook Fans

2009-08-21T14:55:00.001-07:00

There is a special going on for Facebook Fans!

Click on my Fan Box to the left and check it out!!

There is a special going on for Facebook Fans!

Click on my Fan Box to the right and check it out!!

What's been keeping me busy...

2009-08-17T19:01:00.001-07:00

Phew! I've been busy! Ok, Busy with a CAPITAL B!
The last sale went over great and I've been working on the giveaway beanies!

I just wanted to come up for air long enough to show a few of the things I've been busy with.

I could totally insert pics of my three ~~hellion~~ beautiful daughters right here, because God knows they don't let me slow down!

However, here are a few of my recent crafts...

Purple Gingham Flower Clip (attached to alligator clip)

Mini Pink & White Korker Clip (also attached to alligator clip)

"Lil Bella" in Brown & Light Pink
These next beanies will be heading to Germany!

"Lil Bella"
Cream & Purple (this looks even better in person)

"Faded Denim" - Original Newsboy Beanie

In honor of my newly graduated CHP officer brother, I made the black & white beanie for his roommate's boys.

This is a close up of "The Hamptons" beanie

"The Hamptons" Original Newsboy beanie
I don't know why I call it that. I've never been... to the Hamptons, that is.
I have been to the beach a lot and that's what these colors remind me of... summer.

"Granny Stitch" Newsboy in sage. This beanie was
fully customized per customers specific requests!

These next two were ordered by my very first "Stella B Designs" customer on Etsy.
She's ordered them for a set of twins that are due soon!
They will also be army "brats".
(I hope you know I use that term very affectionately!)

Custome Beanie Giveaway Winner

2009-08-03T16:55:00.000-07:00

Ok, first of all... can I just say how hard it was for me to limit the giveaway to just ONE winner?!
Some of your comments and critiques were so nice that I just wanted to start handing them out like candy to kids! (Unfortunately, I cannot afford to do that right now.)

However, I *did* decide to pick TWO winners!
So here they are...
(chosen randomly on random.org)

Nancy Spangler Culp
& Covey Denton!!!

Yay you!
Nancy and Covey, you can message me on Facebook, Etsy or email me at stellabdesigns@yahoo.com and I'll get your beanie info there!

Ok, dry up the tears... take a deep breathe... suck it up, ya big bay-by!
(I'm totally consoling myself, btw)

For the rest of ya... the $10 beanie sale is continuing through tonight AND, because I feel SO BAD about only being able to give away a couple, you can totally have free shipping through Friday if you mention "suckitupfs" with your order!

Also, I believe I forgot to blog about the loverly lady that is spotlighting my beanies on her website! Melissa is giving away TWO MORE of my beanies and HER giveaway is active until this Friday! YAY! More free CUSTOM, AWESOME, ADORABLE beanies for you! That's 4 in total! See, I'm just a big softy! You should definitely go see her at a little etsy love (Melissa does this awesome craft with paper cutting! Sooo cute and intricate!)

Be on the lookout for more giveaways soon! I have so much fun doing them that I'm definitely going to keep them coming!

WEEKEND SPECIAL 7/31/09 - 8/3/09

2009-07-31T10:07:00.000-07:00

*************************************************************
First off... "HelLo" to my new friends!
Second, I just wanted to issue a reminder that the giveaway entries will be shut down at 3 p.m. (pst)! So if you haven't, or know somebody that hasn't but might like to, I need at least a comment on this posting or my Facebook Page (you can click on the sidebar button)!

Good luck!
************************************************************
Lot's going on!

There are $10 beanies ALL WEEKEND & through Monday in my Etsy shop!

And another giveaway has began!

Up for grabs.... 1 custom beanie!

So here's what you need to do!

Become a ~~sheep~~ follower of this blog & leave me a comment w/ your contact info!

What? You want more chances?! Ok, become a Fan of my Facebook page & leave me a comment on the Giveaway post! ( I now have a Fan box on the right side of the blog - click on that - makes it so simple!)

WHAT? MORE?! You're greedy! But there is one more way! You can refer me to a friend & if they contact me, in ANY way, you'll get another entry!

*snicker, tee hee, giggle* Ssshhhh There's one more way, but you *must* also be a friend of mine on Facebook to know... 'cause I love my friends! (So ya know, Friends are different than Fans!)

So what'll it be?! A tassle beanie!? (you're pretty sassy if you do!)

An original Newsboy?

In Cammo, maybe!?

A Summertime Newsgirl!?

A Granny Skull Newsgirl?!

Entries will be taken until Monday, August 3rd @ 3pm (PST) - WINNERS will be announced shortly thereafter!

Good luck!

Flower Clip Selection

2009-07-23T15:46:00.001-07:00

"Standard Daisy"
This is the standard clip included with each Newsboy variety beanie.
(Summertime, Original & Shell Stitch)
Approximately 2 1/2"
To order single or additional, reference: SD1

"Fluffy Daisy"
Approximately 5"

To order, reference: FD1 & specify color: orange, hot pink or purple

"Spikey Gerbera Daisy"
Approx: 4.5"
To order, reference: SGD & specify color: hot pink, light pink, cream

"Country Daisy"
Approx: 4.5"
To order, reference CD1 & specify color: yellow, green or blue (these tend to run in lighter shades)

**All clips come attached to a double prong alligator clip lined with coordinating grosgrain ribbon and non-slip grip. All ribbon is heat sealed to prevent fraying.

Focus Group (Crochet Halter Top)

2009-07-20T11:49:00.000-07:00

I'm needing some opinions! Do you have one? Do you have many?

Do you have any that can be directed towards my newest crocheted goody?

I thought this lil crocheted diddy was so cute I had to make one for Emma. I'm thinking about selling them on Etsy and wanted to get some opinions before I did. The one pictured is made from Caron Simply Soft Eco yarn (very soft, lots of color selection). I'm working on one as a gift in the Sugar n Cream cotton yarn and it's turning out very cute, as well! I'm thinking they'll come in sizes ranging from 12 months through 5T. Of course the colors are fully customizable!

So, if you'll be so kind, I'd love for you to let me know if this piece strikes you as "fabulously sassy", "no way, too granny" or "eh, I can take it or leave it"!

She's giving a "sneak peek" pose!

Although I believe it's just meant to tie up top and leave the back mostly open, I wove in the ends in a shoelace-type tie and it worked out really well!

Weekend Special 7/17 - 7/20

2009-07-17T09:08:00.000-07:00

✿♥✿♥✿♥WEEKEND SPECIAL✿♥✿♥✿♥

$10 BEANIES! $10 BEANIES! $10 BEANIES!

Special ends 7/20/09

✿♥✿♥✿♥✿♥✿♥✿♥✿♥✿♥✿♥✿♥✿♥✿♥

This & That

2009-07-10T10:02:00.000-07:00

First, Happy Friday!
Beanies now have lower pricing! Check 'em out, here.
Yay for the bad economy, right? LoL
Now through Sunday night, all items SHIP FREE!
I was able to get some cute-ish photos this week, however I still would like to find a photog or few that would like to exhange services with me! Interested? Email me at stellabdesigns@blogspot.com

Here are some of the photos I took that I ended up liking a lot!

Emma in the Summertime Newsgirl w/ Large Flower

Here it is, in color... (Yes, I know it doesn't quite match her outfit) lol

This is a Granny Stitch Summertime Newsgirl w/ Large flower

Side view of Granny Stitch Summertime Newsgirl

This is my darling Brooklyn in the Original Newsboy beanie w/ large flower

One more of the Summertime Newsgirl

Favorite Things

2009-07-10T08:41:00.000-07:00

Butt Freckles.
Yes, you heard me right and No, not those kind of butt freckles.
(Unless, of course, they're on baby bottoms)

However, these butt freckles have ~~nothing~~ almost nothing to do with butts.

You see, not too very long ago, I had no idea what a butt freckle was and as you can imagine, I was very intrigued - (as you probably are right now)- when I first heard "butt freckles". So I immediately followed links and this is what I found...

"What the-?!" I was thinking... just like I'm sure you are, now.

At first, my cynical nature took over and quite ignored the cute fuzziness and big eyeballs that were somewhat appealing. These simply did not make sense. What the heck are butt freckles?!

So, I began reading this deranged person's shop announcements, in which she writes... and I quote...

"I needed a creative outlet to keep my hands busy and my mind fresh. I created these little freckles to meet both of those needs."

Yeah, OK... I can see that, but what ARE butt freckles?

She addresses that, too...

"All freckles are snatched off quickly and with excessive force. They are then taken to a secret lab where they are exposed to radioactive caju dust which causes the freckle to greatly increase in size. After exposure to the dust, the freckle's unique characteristics become easily visible including their very own butt freckle.(a special glass bead sewn on the rear, example shown in last picture)"

Er, excuse me!?! Cuckoo... cuckoo... (can you see the little birdy going in and out)?

And then I may have seen one like this pretty lil gal... She is the Fancy Cake Butt Freckle.

And my heart may have softened a little bit...

So then I probably started looking at more... and I could have started to read the little back stories behind the names.

This is the Einstein Strawberry Butt Freckle
"A strawberry with hair. This sometimes happens in my fridge and I am sharing the results with you ^_^"

And then I giggled - because I may or may not have something in my fridge that looks like that.

You know what that means... I was starting to get hooked.

The Cauliflower Butt Freckle
"This funky nubby veggie is not one of my favorites but it has some darn cute freckles."

Blondes Have More Fun Butt Freckle
No witty story included. *sigh* I always get a bit down when there isn't a story.

And here are a few samples of the freckles that end up on the butts of these cuties. (So I guess it does have something to do with butts afterall.) Still not convinced? That's OK, you don't have to be. The man of the house still isnt'. His main question was... "What do you do with them?"

Funny, she address that, too...

"What to do with your freckle?
- hide it in the medicine closet
- stash it in your child's lunch
- make it pee on your son (thanks MaMeex5)
- throw it at the cat
- set it on your desk
- tag the back of your bro's head
The possibilities are endless!"

I particularly like 4 and 6!

All kidding aside, though... I chose to order a couple of these things because I came to admire the concept as a whole. This woman took something so simple and easy to make and is now selling them like mad! I believe her off-center humor and wit also add to the appeal.

When I first found her she had sold somewhere between 700-800 BFs... Her totals are now up to around 1700! 1700 BF's sold?! You can do the math, but that's a pretty good record for such a "silly" little product.

And for the record, I no longer think the Butt Freckle creator is deranged and/or Cuckoo! I would LOVE to find something so fun to make a sale and be as successful as she has. And honestly, these things bring a smile to my face everytime I see them. I'd say she's close to genius!

I'll share with you two of my favorite Butt Freckles.

The first one I ever bought:

Caramel Butt Freckle
(Because, I, like her, LOVE caramel)
"I don't like chocolate but I love caramel. From the processed cubes to melted topping. This guy is from homemade caramel from my mother in law's cheesecake.YUMMY"

Lemon Curd Butt Freckle
(because it's cute)
"Lemon Curd is great right off the spoon or you can add it to something like bread or scones. My last batch had this hairy freckle at the bottom of the bowl."

If you think you might one day like to buy a Butt Freckle, you can browse through her current and sold inventory by visiting her shop... just click here!

Modelicious

2009-07-01T13:02:00.000-07:00

I've been totally remiss is posting these gorgeous babes and I apologize!

I was so excited to get a rather "bulky" order when I re-opened as Stella B Designs... Not for selfish reasons, but becaue the beanies were going to a Mommy with 5, yes FIVE kids! 4 girls and one precious little man! Can you guess which number he is in the order of things? (You'll get your answer down below!) =o) Anyway, I already felt close to them as I was #4 in a family with 5 children!

I also felt a little twinge of recognition with the ratio of girls to ~~boys~~ boy. Actually, I think my Lovin' Man would more effectively relate to the drive of "gettin' that boy" seeing as we have 3 girls and all... no lil mini version of the Lovin' Man running around anywhere.

Anyway, their mother, Kathy, was kind enough to let me have some of their photos to post on here. So here they are... the five lil monkeys!

This is Hailey in her Summertime Crochet Beanie (shades of purple). If I remember correctly, the beanies arrived on her 8th birthday!

These two gorgeous kiddos are Casey (in blues/greens) and Matigan (shades of turquoise).

Here they are from behind... can't you just feel the love!?

And here's their gorgeous lil man, Declan. He's wearing an Original Newsboy in blue cammo!

*wracking brain* I'm missing my pic of Kylie, but here she is (in the pinks) - isn't her hair absolutely gorgeous?

Back, L to R: Kylie, Matigan, Hailey, Casey

Front: Declan

And then there's "my" precious Hannah. She's my beautiful (and only) niece. I love her to bits!

She's wearing grosgrain flower clips (with button centers) in these first two pictures.

Here she is with a Christmas Pointsettia! Isn't she the cutest?!

Did I mention that Modelicious stars get a 25% discount and free shipping on their next order?! I didn't? Well, they do! So if you've ordered from me in the past and want to share your sassy kids with me, send me your pics and you'll save on your next order, too!

4th of July Specials now running

2009-07-01T11:54:00.000-07:00

$10 Beanies and Free shipping thru 7/6/09!!

WEEKEND SPECIAL 6/19 - 6/21

2009-06-19T08:43:00.000-07:00

$10 Beanies!!

Extra special discount for blog readers only...

Mention "fsblog" and also get FREE SHIPPING!

Specials are good on ALL beanies - custom or premade!

I'll be adding some new styles this weekend so keep an eye out!

Just go here or here!

Weekend Special 6/12 - 6/14

2009-06-12T18:21:00.000-07:00

The special for this weekend Iiiisssss...
25% off of everything!!!

Yes, this includes custom orders!

And, as a little extra bonus, mention "sbblog" at

any point during the transaction and receive an additional 10% off!

The special for this weekend Iiiisssss...

25% off of everything!!!

Yes, this includes custom orders!

And, as a little extra bonus, mention "sbblog" at any point during the transaction and receive and additional 10% off!

Weekend Special 6/5 - 6/7

2009-06-04T18:49:00.000-07:00

Weekend Special

*good on paid orders thru Sunday, June 7th @ 12a.m.

**etsy orders enter "JUNEWKE1"

All beanies - $10!!!

All clips - free shipping!!

Beanie & Bandana Halter Top Set - $15!!!!

New Item!!

2009-06-03T09:07:00.000-07:00

Introducing the new...

Bandana Halter Top!

I love these! They are simple, cute and sassy... yes, just how we roll!

I made these for my girls YEARS ago and have wanted to make more... so here they are!

They're made from 100% cotton bandanas...

They come in a variety of colors: red, hot orange, yellow, green, teals, cammo, blues, purples, Red-white & blue, black, white, tiedye... etc, etc

They are super lightweight and PERFECT for the HOT summer sun!

Pair it with a matching summertime beanie for a stylish summer outfit!

With proper care these tops can last your Little One for YEARS!
Seriously... they are easily adjustable for sizes 12 mos - 5t!

And did I mention that they're cute?!

These aren't on my etsy shop yet, but are available for order! Just email me or contact me on Facebook!

$6.50 - and that *includes shipping! That's ~~insane~~ - er, a GREAT deal! ;o)

*add $.50 for each additional bandana top

Giveaway Winner!

2009-05-26T11:51:00.000-07:00

Congrats go out to Kathy for being the first (and only) responder to Stella B Designs FIRST EVER giveaway contest!! All she had to do was a leave a comment on our blog and look at all she'll get! She has 4 daughters and 1 son!!! She terms her kids as "army brats" so we stayed away from the pink!!!

Here is what she'll be getting:

1 - American Pride Loopy Korker

1 - American Pride Mini Korker

2 - Desert Sand Boutique Bows
2 - Cammo Boutique Bows

1- Desert Sand Tails Down Bow

1- Monkey Bow Holder

The whole package!

Congrats, again, Kathy! I hope you enjoy!!

Memorial Dale Sale

2009-05-25T09:39:00.000-07:00

Happy Memorial Day!

In honor of all those who have served our wonderful country,

Stella B Designs is having a one day sale!

$10 beanies and Free SHIPPING on all items!

Come and check out my Etsy shop, or contact me with your special orders!

Help Wanted

2009-05-22T20:41:00.000-07:00

Are there any photographers in the house!?! I could possibly be one of the worst photographers with the wiggliest models ever! Those two things together make it VERY difficult to get good shots of my crafts!

What I need: Some sweet and sassy photos featuring my crafts on your models.

What I'm offering: In exchange for your Company logo photos featuring MY products, you get to keep all that I send. (Including, but not limited to, leg warmers, beanies and/or hair clippies.) In addition to using your gorgeous photos in my etsy shop and blog, your photography studio will also be featured on both sites - links and shouts-outs and advertising galore!!

So, if you can help me out and you'd like some free products, shoot me an email with a link featuring your work, so we can discuss details! stellabdesigns@yahoo.com

And just for grins & giggles, I'm adding some very humorous photo attempts I've made in the past! Enjoy!

Newest Clippie Postings

2009-05-21T21:44:00.000-07:00

I think I'm *in Love* with these clippies. I'd keep them for Emma given half the chance! They were made from the last of my supply of this ribbon, so once they're gone, they're most likely gone forever (unless I can find the ribbon again.) *fingers crossed*

So here they are... the Pink Essentials Line... Who DOESN'T LOVE pink and brown!?! You can find them at my Etsy shop! Just CLICK HERE!

First Response Giveaway!

2009-05-20T19:41:00.001-07:00

To kick off the (re)opening of my Etsy shop, I am offering a free surprise gift!! The first person to leave me a comment on this post is the winner! Simple, right? Just leave me a comment with your name and how you found this post and your free *surprise* gift will be all yours!

So if you're not the first to respond, leave me a comment anyways!!! There may be something in store for you afterall!

Ok, so if I were you, I'd want to know something about what I was getting... it will be girly and related to the products on my pages... but that's all I'm giving up!

Q n A Time

2009-05-20T12:58:00.000-07:00

What is Etsy?

According to Wikipedia, Etsy is...

... a website which provides the general public with a way to buy and sell handmade items, including art, photography, clothing, jewelry, and toys. The site follows in the tradition of open craft fairs, giving sellers personal storefronts where they list their goods for a fee.[1] It has been compared to "a crafty cross between Amazon, eBay",[2] and "your grandma's basement".

Why do I use Etsy?

I like to use Etsy for the following reasons:

*easy order tracking

*easy, fast checkouts

*free sign up for sellers & buyers

*fee-free purchasing for buyers

*automated check out

*cheaper than ebay

Is Etsy the *only* option for purchases?

No. Although I prefer using Etsy as a sales tool, it is not mandatory.

I also have a Facebook account you can find me at. Just click here.

OR, you can email me at stellabdesigns@yahoo.com

You are more than welcome to get in touch via any of the above avenues!

Do I do wholesale?

Beanies:

The largest order I have done, to date, is 10 crochet beanies. Seeing as how my costs are already pretty low, I was unable to go super low on the pricing. That, coupled with how long it takes to make the beanies make it difficult to do wholesaling. I am, however able to work on larger orders - given the buyer recognizes that I am a mommy to 3 and all crocheting is done in my spare time. (Spare time? Wha-??) =o)

Hair Clippies:

I could better manage larger orders for clips as they go together more quickly. Again, my pricing is already on the low side, so there is very little wiggle room.

Leg Warmers:

I am unable to do any type of wholesaling for leg warmers. Seeing as how I do all of my crafting on a smaller scale I only pick up one or two styles at a time. Perhaps, if business picks up, I would be able to do a little more in this area, but for now, the answer is "no".

Shipping & Handling:

The following are my current shipping and handling policies:

Beanies normally take just a couple of hours to make so some may ship within 48 hours of payment. However, if I have multiple orders or I have to order yarn (which happens a lot, since we're quite rural here and yarn selection is limited) shipping times may be up to 2 weeks after payment is received. I will do everything in my power to make sure your beanies make it to you as quickly as possible.

Hair Clippies and Leg Warmers will ship within 48 hours of payment unless otherwise posted.

Further Questions?!

Just leave me a comment, find me on Facebook, or email me!

First Items going up!

2009-05-14T12:53:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Stella B Designs!

My name is Brooke and I am a SAHM (stay at home mom) to 3 BEAUTIFUL daughters; Brooklyn (8), Brenna (4) and Emma (1).

They are my everything... lap covers, hug-givers, time-consumers, snuggle-makers, patience-testers, heart-melters, smile-givers, grey hair-developers... and my inspiration for the crafts that I do. I started making hair clippies not long after Emma was born. I tried the big floofy bows, but could never get them to the point I thought they were perfect, so instead we do simple... yet sassy!
That's just how this family rolls!

I moved on to Baby Leg Warmers (not yet listed in new shop) and then started using my crocheting abilities to make some oh-so-cute beanies for my babies. This crafting is just one of my hobbies... I've found that I love making things with my hands and sharing the outcome with others. I love to accomodate all special requests and am so anal about getting everything just right that I will try and bend over backwards to make you happy! Ok, within reason... I will get you what you asked for until I get it right! I wouldn't be able to rest until then. =o)

My internal motto and pledge is:
"I will not sell anything that I wouldn't be absolutely proud to put on my own children before they leave the house."

I, in *no* way, claim to be a professional. I simply love to pass on my hobby to others. From what I can see, my items are fairly priced... I know what it's like to want the oh-so-cute fashion forward items of today, yet NOT want to spend a fortune on them.

So, here they are! Some of the first items to be listed on Stella B Deigns...